About
Iris Jean is an art studio collective based in Los Angeles, founded by Chelsey Croucher and Marcio Rivera. Their artistic focus revolves around crafting unique and organic light sculptures using a variety of natural and recycled materials. These materials include handmade paper derived from rice and tree pulp, as well as concrete and recycled packaging components. Iris Jean embraces the value of thoughtful creation and finds excitement in the concept of small batch designs that defy mass production. Each piece created by Iris Jean is considered a precious treasure, reflecting the studio's commitment to creating one-of-a-kind artworks.
In Iris Jean, Chelsey specializes in crafting paper-crete light sculptures using found and recycled materials, while Marcio creates unique pendant lanterns using rattan and recycled materials. Together, they contribute to the studio's collection of light sculptures designed to endure over time.
About the sculptures
The inside
Contains either a C7 mood bulb for a sacred space or E17 for a little bit of a brighter and focused atmosphere such as a work station. All bulbs used are at least 2700K, meaning they will be warm and welcoming. The cords, plug and rotary switch are all wired by hand using retro dead-stock lamp materials.
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The base mix
A secret recipe created after numerous attempts. It's a sustainable yet structural combination of recycled paper pulp, glue, cement, pigment, and flour. The armatures are created using recycled and found materials such as boxes, filler, paper tape, wire and more. The base is dried, cured and sealed with matte acrylic spray.
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The shade
Lantern: Rattan hand-wound and glued, covered with chopped Japanese rice paper, added in layers using a wheat-paste paper mâché technique. Dried, cured and gently sealed with matte acrylic spray
Pleated: Hand folded recycled white kraft paper, securely sewn by hand. Dried, cured and gently sealed with matte acrylic spray.
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